A threatened species is any species that is likely to become endangered in the near future. Currently, a prominent example of a threatened species is the Bigeye Tuna, which is classified as Vulnerable.
In conservation biology, the term "threatened" is a broad classification often used to describe species that fall into one of three specific categories according to global conservation assessments, such as those by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). These categories signify varying degrees of risk of extinction in the wild:
- Vulnerable (VU): Species facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future.
- Endangered (EN): Species facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.
- Critically Endangered (CR): Species facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild in the immediate future.
Therefore, any species listed as Vulnerable, Endangered, or Critically Endangered is considered a "threatened species."
Examples of Threatened Species
Based on current conservation assessments, here are some examples of species considered threatened:
| Common Name | Scientific Name | Conservation Status |
|---|---|---|
| Tiger | Panthera tigris | Endangered |
| Whale | Balaenoptera, Balaena, Eschrichtius, and Eubalaen | Endangered |
| Whale Shark | Rhincodon typus | Endangered |
| Bigeye Tuna | Thunnus obesus | Vulnerable |
As the table shows, species like the Bigeye Tuna are categorized as Vulnerable, indicating a significant risk of extinction, while iconic species such as Tigers and various Whale species are classified as Endangered, facing an even higher and more immediate threat.
Why Are Species Threatened?
Species become threatened due to a variety of factors, often interconnected:
- Habitat Loss and Degradation: The destruction or fragmentation of natural habitats due to human activities like agriculture, urbanization, and deforestation.
- Climate Change: Shifting weather patterns, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events that alter ecosystems and impact species' survival.
- Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: Illegal hunting and trade for parts, pets, or food, which depletes populations.
- Pollution: Contamination of air, water, and land by industrial chemicals, plastics, and other waste.
- Overexploitation: Unsustainable fishing, hunting, or harvesting that depletes populations faster than they can reproduce.
How Can We Help Threatened Species?
Protecting threatened species requires collective effort and sustained conservation actions:
- Support Conservation Organizations: Contribute to or volunteer with reputable organizations working to protect wildlife and their habitats. Many organizations, like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), provide critical support for threatened species.
- Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: Adopt practices that lower greenhouse gas emissions, such as using renewable energy, public transport, and reducing consumption, to mitigate climate change.
- Make Sustainable Choices: Opt for products that are sustainably sourced, especially seafood (check for sustainable fishing certifications for species like tuna), and avoid products that contribute to deforestation or illegal wildlife trade.
- Advocate for Policy Changes: Support policies and legislation aimed at environmental protection, habitat preservation, and stricter regulations against poaching and pollution.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about local and global conservation issues and share this knowledge to raise awareness.
